El Salvador Charges Rs 1 Lakh Entry Fee for Indian Tourists – What’s the Reason?

El Salvador, a country known for its abundance of volcanoes and picturesque beaches such as El Tunco, Punta Roca, El Sunzal, El Zonte, La Costa del Sol, El Majahual, and La Libertad beach, has recently made headlines by implementing a substantial entry fee of USD 1,000 (equivalent to Rs 83,219) for travelers from India and 50 African nations, coupled with value-added tax (VAT), resulting in a total cost of USD 1,130 (Rs 94,038) for entry.

The rationale behind this decision, as stated by El Salvador’s authorities, is to address uncontrolled immigration, especially toward the United States, by imposing this fee. In addition to collecting the entry fee, the government has instructed airlines serving the country to provide daily reports on travelers from India and the designated African nations. The funds generated from this fee are slated for the improvement of facilities at El Salvador International Airport.

Diplomatic experts have noted that El Salvador’s move is reflective of a global trend where governments and airlines are introducing travel restrictions to combat immigration challenges. In the fiscal year 2023, approximately 3.2 million immigrants arrived in El Salvador, underscoring the severity of the issue.

Aside from its immigration policies, El Salvador boasts a unique landscape featuring over 100 volcanoes, the tallest of which is Santa Ana, rising 2,381 meters above sea level. Notably, these volcanoes are also depicted on the national flag. Despite not having a Caribbean Sea shoreline, the country’s captivating beaches facing the Pacific Ocean are popular among surfers due to the impressive waves.

El Salvador also offers cultural and historical attractions, including five archaeological parks: Cihuatan, Joya de Ceren, San Andres, Casa Blanca, and Tazumal. Tazumal, in particular, provides a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. Additionally, El Salvador has made its mark in the world of coffee production, with notable varieties like Pacas and Pacamara. Although the country’s land area is relatively small, it was once the world’s fourth-largest coffee producer.